In this article, we introduce a narrative approach to biographical learning; that is, an approach that considers autobiographical storytelling as a practice through which claims about life history are performed and negotiated. Using insights from narrative theory, we highlight evaluations in those narratives and suggest their crucial role in…

This study investigated sense of coherence (SOC) as a potential predictor of employment outcomes of unemployed job seekers. Ninety-eight unemployed persons were surveyed at 2 measurement points 6 months apart. The findings showed that strong SOC at baseline predicted positive outcomes (reemployment or being a student) 6 months later. SOC evidently…

This good practice guide is based on the report "Industry Restructuring and Job Loss: Helping Older Workers Get Back into Employment" by Victor J. Callan and Kaye Bowman. The aim of the research was to identify evidence-based practices that led to successful skills transfer, re-skilling, training and the attainment of new jobs for older…

Globalisation and increased competition bring with them many benefits for business, consumers and the economy. But they can also result in the restructuring of industries not able to compete with changing economic markets. In the past, Australia has witnessed restructuring in many high-profile businesses, especially those in its manufacturing…

This paper examines labor market conditions and public employment policies in the United States during what some are calling the Great Recession. We document the dramatic labor market changes that rapidly unfolded when the rate of gross domestic product growth turned negative, from the end of 2007 through early 2009. The paper reviews the…

Consists of four articles describing company and government policies concerning helping dislocated workers. Discusses (1) pre- and post-layoff services at General Motors, (2) placement services for geologists displaced by the collapse of the petroleum industry, (3) the Job Training Partnership Act, and (4) information services for laid-off…

Typical reactions to job loss are Victim, Survivor, and Navigator responses. A training program can help participants acknowledge their feelings, identify positive ways to manage change, understand the phases of change, learn stress management techniques, visualize their desired futures, and plan for achieving their vision. (SK)

Interviews with 325 British union members who had become unemployed and with 30 union officials found some attempt by unions to organize the unemployed and provide assistance. However, policies and services such as job information, retraining, and legal aid are not well communicated to the people who need them. (SK)

Successful programs developed to help laid-off teachers find new jobs are described. (MD)

Millions of United States' workers are unemployed, many of them dislocated from their jobs and careers by extended layoffs, drastic manpower reductions, and plant closings. Describes a model of the emotional roller coaster ride taken by employees displaced by a plant closing and suggests approaches to helping them and their families. (Author/ABB)

The problem of job displacement poses numerous challenges for the client and the counselor. Not only must the counselor deal with the problems of re-programming the worker, but he or she must also deal with the worker's own loss and feelings of worthlessness. The import of the counselor who successfully works with the unemployed is immeasurable.…

Common responses to job loss include stress reactions, depression and anxiety, and lowered self-esteem. This article describes these common reactions to job loss and unemployment, explains how to recognize their symptoms, and discusses ways counselors can address these emotional barriers to finding meaningful employment. (Contains 50 references.)…

Two reviews have been initiated regarding the extent of worker dislocation and efforts by the public and private sectors to assist dislocated workers. One assignment obtained information on the extent of business closures and permanent layoffs from a random sample of 2,600 such establishments via a telphone interview. Information on the assistance…

This congressional hearing focuses on the Economic Dislocation and Worker Adjustment Assistance Act, which includes features of the prior year's Labor-Management Notification and Consultation Act of 1985 as well as new provisions enacting economic dislocation and worker adjustment task force recommendations. Testimony includes statements and…

Examined effectiveness of a structured cognitive stress reduction program for unemployed managers (n=42) involved in an outplacement program. Using a control group design, managers who were assigned to cognitively based stress reduction program found reemployment significantly sooner and showed reductions in levels of state anxiety and anger that…